A key theme of the luncheon was leading by example – that the number of women in leadership positions will not materially change without commitment from management at the top, who are often men. Lévy said that placing men and women “on equal footing is sometimes not very easy to understand” for everyone. But, raised in a family where gender equality was recognized among children and grandchildren and in an industry where, Lévy remarked, “most of my best, most sensitive (advertising) campaigns come from women,” the case is clear.

Kate Bensen, President and CEO of The Chicago Network, expressed gratitude for Lévy’s participation in the luncheon. “We are grateful for Maurice Lévy’s involvement in the Women in the Forefront luncheon – a real landmark for The Chicago Network. Mr. Lévy, who has long been an advocate for opportunities for women at Publicis, was our first male speaker in 26 years. The Network is fundamentally committed to the principle of inclusion, and Mr. Lévy’s involvement underscores our belief that full inclusion involves both men and women. Read the full Press Release here.